Pha Tad Ke Botanical Gardens, Luang Prabang, Laos
A relatively new kid on the block, Pha Tad Ke was opened in 2016, and the passion which has gone into making Laos’ first botanical gardens a reality is almost palpable. The curators have taken a fresh approach, merging traditional botanical techniques with modern eco-sustainability to create a garden which evolves and develops naturally; a living archive of Laotian biodiversity. After a 15-minute boat trip down the Mekong from the town centre, you step into a different world. Choose any of the winding paths to begin your exploration as you learn about ceremonial and medicinal plants, gaze out over the lotus ponds and relax in shady palm groves. Read more about Luang Prabang here.
Victoria Peak Gardens, Hong Kong
When the noise and humidity of central Hong Kong get too much, the residents of this global super-city head uphill to the peaceful heights of the Victoria Peak gardens. Near the summit, on the site of the old Governor’s Residence, this park is reached via a ride on the tram followed by a gentle 30-40 minute hike. Any children who tackle the trek can look forward to a runabout in the nearby Mount Austin playground as an incentive! Stretching out at the top of the park are beautifully manicured lawns where you can sit and enjoy the panoramic views down over Hong Kong in blissful tranquillity.
Suan Nong Nooch, Pattaya, Thailand
Half Kew Gardens, half Disneyland, there is nowhere else on Earth quite like Suan Nong Nooch. Spread over more than 600 acres, these vast gardens are immaculately landscaped in a variety of styles from the classical to the cutting edge, each section with its own theme and planting design. But what really makes these gardens stand out are the hundreds of giant ornaments scattered among the flowers. These are not your typical stone cupids; there is everything from full-size dinosaurs, to brightly-coloured animal sculptures and even a miniature replica of Stonehenge! Utterly bonkers but completely compelling, Nong Nooch is consistently listed in the top 10 gardens of the world.
Strolling through a garden in full bloom is one of life’s great pleasures, and throughout Asia there are hundreds more green spaces to discover. Chat with one of our Destination Specialists about incorporating a garden visit into your next trip, and enjoy the gentler pace you’ll find there.
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